We get asked all the time by customers about the different parts of a staircase—what they're called, what they do, and why it matters. It’s common for homeowners and renovators to feel overwhelmed by technical names like "stringer" or "baluster". That’s why we’ve put together this handy article—to demystify staircase anatomy, improve public knowledge, and help you talk to us using the proper terms when planning your project!
Whether you're choosing carpet, planning railings, or just want to understand what you're referring to when you say “that angled bit under the handrail,” this guide is here to help. We include images to clearly illustrate each component and speak in plain terms so you can feel confident discussing your staircase with professionals or simply broaden your own understanding. Let’s dive in.
Staircase Anatomy & Terminology
Here's our updated glossary of common staircase parts and what they do.
Basic staircase terminology
1. Width
This ism the width of your staircase. When ordering a runner specify how wide you would like the carpet runner to be. In most cases generally leave 10cm of stair showing each side. On that basis the runner width is the stair width - 20cm.
2. Winding stair or winder
Also know as a 'kite stair' 'pie shaped stair', it is a triangular shaped stair that turns the staircase. Note that it is wider than a straight stair and if ordering a runner this will need a template made for it, so it can be cut to size.
3. Straight stair
Your standard straight step.
4. Tread
This is the part of the stair you walk on or 'climb'. Its where your foot goes!
5. Platform
A square mini landing that allows the staircase to turn around 90 degrees. A double landing is often twice the size and allows the staircase to turn back on itself 180 degrees.
Advanced stair terminology
1. Tread
This is the part of a step that your foot will make contact with and climb.
2. Riser
This is the vertical part of the step connected at 90 degrees to the tread.
3. Newell post
The large posts that signifies the beginning and end of a staircase, a change of direction or a change of elevation. They also parts of the staircase and make it rigid and solid.
4. Stringer
The support for a staircase, this is where the treads and risers are embedded.
4. Baserail
This sits on your stringer and has a groove which is used to hold in the spindles.
4. Staircase balustrade
Similar to the landing balustrade designed to stop falls from the staircase.
4. Handrail
The piece of timber that sits on top of the spindles and provides support when walking up or down the staircase
1. Bull Step
Often the first step of a staircase, it's a feature step that meets into the front of the newel.
2. Cut or open stringers
The support for a staircase, this is where the treads and risers are exposed unlike a normal stringer.
3. Spindles
Smaller posts between the handrail and stringer, they prevent anyone from falling from the staircase and also can be a source of elaborate decoration.
4. Landing nosing
Nosing that sits around a landing and this nis where your carpet or wood will fit to.
5. Half Newell post
These large posts that signify the end of staircase, a change of direction or a change of elevation.
6. Landing balustrade
A balustrade, low screen formed by railings of spindles or glass designed to prevent falls from the stairwell.
Tips When Talking About Your Staircase
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Use the correct terms — like “newel post” rather than “big post”— when describing what you want.
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If you want a staircase turn, specify whether winders or a landing is preferred.
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Feature/casual terms: “curtain tread” or “bullnose step” helps illustrate a stylish bottom tread.
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Ask about finishing touches: matching nosing profiles, spindle styles, and newel cap choices.
Feel free to message us with your staircase drawings or layout—we're happy to help talk you through it in your own words, or advise you using these technical terms.
And by the way, these wicked looking images came from https://www.ehjoinery.com/help-guides/staircase-terminology/
